Growing in Self-awareness Part 3: Mind

We have practiced self-awareness with body and heart in the first two parts of this series. We can now use some of those same principles to practice self-awareness through our thoughts. Our thoughts are powerful. When we have insight into our thoughts, we have a lot of ability to consider whether those thoughts are true, and where they came from. When we take a step back and observe our thoughts, we may notice we are more preoccupied or more critical than we thought. Or maybe we find a more even-keeled version of ourselves than we usually hear. So let’s practice self-awareness through our thoughts. 

Take a few deep, slow breaths. This helps us get in touch with the present moment. Notice what thoughts come to mind. If you can name your thoughts one at a time, go ahead and do that. You can pause and notice if your thoughts are moving fast or slow. Are they related to the present moment? Or maybe they are drawn to something else. Notice what your mind is paying attention to. Practice noticing what it feels like to be concentrated on your thoughts. Now gently shift your attention back to your breathing. In through the nose and out through the mouth.

Continue noticing your thoughts and turn your attention to observing them. Set a one-minute timer and just notice what comes to mind. Notice the pace of your thoughts. Observe what kind of thoughts you have. No judgment. We are just noticing. 

We can practice being nonjudgmental toward our thoughts. We can also notice how they make us feel, or how it feels to be in touch with those thoughts. Did you notice any repetitive thoughts? Any troubling thoughts? Anything that you didn’t expect? Just be curious and open to whatever your mind comes up with. Your thoughts are telling you what is important to you and what needs attention in your life.

Feel free to write down your thoughts or voice them to a friend.  If you noticed any difficult or repetitive thoughts, you can take a few moments to honor them, and then practice putting them away in a safe nook of your mind until you are able to come back to them with someone alongside you.

You have practiced a few tools to help connect with your mind. I hope they were calming and provided insight into your thought life. Thanks for taking the time to read this article and practice growing in self awareness!

Written by Samantha Schlepphort